CalCPA hosted hundreds of CPAs, accounting professionals, educators and firm leaders from across California at its annual Members Club Summit in San Diego, bringing the profession together for three days of learning, collaboration and leadership focused on the future of accounting.
Held July 29 through 31 at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, the 2026 Members Club Summit, themed “Charting What’s Next. Together.”, featured educational sessions, networking opportunities and keynote presentations exploring trends transforming the profession, including artificial intelligence, workforce development, innovation and leadership.
“This event reflects what makes CalCPA unique. It’s an opportunity for some of the brightest minds in the profession to come together to learn, celebrate excellence and help shape the future,” said Denise LeDuc Froemming, CPA, CAE, President and CEO of CalCPA. “As the profession evolves, collaboration, continuous learning and strong leadership are more important than ever.”
CalCPA also welcomed Miklos Ringbauer, MBA, CPA, PMP, founder of MiklosCPA, as the organization’s 2026-27 Board Chair. A longtime CalCPA volunteer leader, educator and entrepreneur, Ringbauer has served in numerous leadership positions at both the chapter and statewide levels. During his term, he plans to focus on strengthening the accounting talent pipeline, increasing awareness of the CPA profession, and helping more students and professionals discover the benefits and career possibilities of becoming a CPA.
“A CPA license can be a foundation for far more than traditional accounting,” said Ringbauer. “Accounting is about solving puzzles. Every client brings a unique story and a new set of challenges. That’s what makes this profession so rewarding.”
Members Club Summit also celebrated the individuals and firms whose vision, leadership and service are strengthening the accounting profession. This year’s awards recognized outstanding achievement in professional leadership, accounting education, community impact and firm excellence.
Distinguished Service Award: Professor Annette Nellen, CPA, CGMA, Esq., (San Jose) director of the Master of Science in Taxation Program at San José State University, was honored with CalCPA’s highest individual recognition for her decades of leadership in tax education, scholarship and public policy. Nellen was recognized for her longstanding commitment to preparing future accounting professionals and advancing CalCPA’s educational mission.
Outstanding Accounting Educator Award: Professor Debbie Johnson, CPA, of Cerritos College (Los Angeles) was recognized for more than 30 years of preparing students for successful accounting careers and pioneering technology-focused accounting education. Long before spreadsheet and accounting software proficiency became industry standards, Johnson developed innovative curriculums that equipped students with practical technology skills now considered essential throughout the profession.
Public Impact Award: Lynette Atchley, CPA, (Riverside) was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to community service and volunteer leadership. Through more than a decade of leadership with Rebirth Homes and other nonprofit organizations, Atchley has combined professional excellence with a passion for serving others, helping strengthen organizations, expand awareness and improve lives throughout her community.
Firm Awards:
- Firm of the Year: SD Mayer (Bay Area) was recognized for setting the standard for excellence across the accounting profession through innovation, leadership and client service.
- Community Impact Award: Vasquez & Company LLP (Sacramento) was honored for its commitment to giving back through meaningful community engagement and service.
- Cultural Leadership Award: Gray Salt Associates (GSA) (Claremont) was recognized for fostering an inclusive, people-first workplace culture that supports employees and strengthens the profession.
- Most Innovative Firm Award: Miller Kaplan (Los Angeles) was honored for embracing innovation and forward-thinking strategies that are helping shape the future of accounting.
- Next Gen Firm Award: EisnerAmper (Roseville) was recognized for its investment in emerging talent, modern workplace practices and the next generation of accounting professionals.
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